Nutrient content

Barley is rich in manganese, selenium, phosphorus, copper, magnesium, iron, zinc and potassium. However the amount of calcium, vitamin C and pantothenic acid in its composition, is quite low.

Barley is rich in vitamin B6, diamine, niacin, riboflavin and folic acid. Consumption of 100 grams of barley give a person 352 calories. These whole grains are rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and amino acids essential for good health.

Furthermore, barley is one of the most important sources of both soluble and insoluble fiber and rich in tocotrienols, an antioxidant that reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and problems triggered by high cholesterol.

Eat barley for breakfast

- Benefits for blood sugar levels – Consumption of barley for breakfast can help blood sugar levels balance especially thanks to the eight types of essential amino acids that are found in its composition.

Regular use of barley can blur changing blood glucose, which is a normal reaction to any person after eating.

- Dietary fiber – Dietary fiber content present in a moderate serving of barley represent another advantage for barley to be consumed at breakfast. Fiber is essential for bowel movements to be normal and efficient installation of satiety, but also for weight control.

- Source of zinc – Another benefit of consuming barley for breakfast is the amount of zinc that it contains. Zinc is an important element, with positive effects on the human body, useful in the healing process. In addition, it is considered a source of antioxidants that slows visible signs of skin aging and accelerated aging muscles as a result of aging.

Types of barley

Barley can be available in various forms: husked, leaves and barley extract all being used as food sources. However, only certain forms of barley are widely used:

- Peeled (husked) barley – peeled barley in contains the highest amount of nutrients. However, this type of barley, needs more time to be digested when eaten with other common foods.

- Barley grass – leaves are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants. Although the level of dietary fiber in them is not as high as that found in whole grain, barley leaves contain chlorophyll, which can help destroy the harmful toxins in the organism.

- Oatmeal – oatmeal can be used as a substitute for wheat flour, including cakes. Whole barley flour is more nutritious.

- Barley water – the main benefit of barley water is preserving kidney health especially in times of stress. It can be used for therapeutic purposes for people with kidney disease and bladder.